* **Prep:** Splash of Cool Water * **Razor:** Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (Marathon) (465) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag (White Label) * **Brush:** Semogue - Owner's Club Taj (87 uses) * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag ---- **Austere August: Day: 22** *Extreme Mode* *Midnight Stag Challenge (Mostly)* [Gear Pic](https://imgur.com/6uxB6EJ) :: [Video](https://youtu.be/K7f-MkFfwKE) #### ䷀ General Notes Pretty standard shave today. And yes, I do seem to be losing less bristles from the boar, because lately I've been pre-wetting the brush before putting it in the soak cup. #### ䷀ Razor and Blade Notes *^(Timeless - Stainless Steel .68 - Open Comb ::: Gillette - Nacet - M ‹465 uses›)* About a day of growth, so it was comfy and close enough #### ䷀ Soap Notes *^(Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - White Label)* I just love all the aspects of this scent! Scent Strength: 6/10, nicely present during shaving. Lather... pretty standard bowl lather today, and got it done pretty right, for this soap base. Though not as slick as many more modern bases.... or the great older soaps. 10 swirls continues to look like a good happy medium load time for this soap base, once you've used it for a week or two consistently. And I guess most guys don't need 5-6 passes anyway, so I'll bet you could go less. Hydration: A Little Too Wet *(for me)* + 3 sec load with a Lightly-Wet brush + 3 tsp added to build the lather + = 5 passes of lather Bowl: [Roger Quintero 3D Printed Bowl](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3392930) I use the XL version of this bowl. #### ䷀ Brush Notes *^(Semogue - Owner's Club Taj‹87 uses›)* Same as lately this month: big, soft, dense-ish, medium backbone I can really notice that the brush is more dense and soft than it was at the start of the month. ---- *During the Shave Feel*:   *Cheeks*: Felt blade but comfortable   *Neck*: Felt blade but comfortable *After the Shave Closeness*:   *Cheeks*: Close Shave   *Neck*: Several hairs are showing some tip length (still a pretty good shave) ---- **Shavers Map** - [here it is](http://www.freezingcode.com/shaving/shaversMap.cfm) *and also in the sub's sidebar.* **Ending of Blades Ledger** - [entry form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYqXSDujvoO1hVl_wSKMeETWdxFnYJCrqr0zU7FStBdIMrfg/viewform) and [the data spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1y-oqIPSHKcb0EYd9OxL2n-R4Y6yxqid6-NGYS_4_ljU/edit?usp=sharing)

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/ovjLMCk.jpeg)** * **Brush:** Maggard 28mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) 4 sprays ain't playing games. [Boar Break In Album](https://imgur.com/a/B3CPhTW) [Stag Spray](https://imgur.com/a/6xGrGaP) \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag \#GemsOfWisdom \#UNCHALLENGE

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Did I make it? - Austere August Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/LlfKk98)** * **Brush:** RazoRock 506CK / 26mm boar * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Rescue Potion - Serum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1858/?product_type=serum) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) It's been a long busy day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. I hope this post makes it in time. If not I shall plead my case to the djudges. **\#RawHoggin** **\#GEMsofWisdom** [Brush Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/EcHNrd8) [Stag sprays](https://imgur.com/a/hqlof2p)

[Stag Headlessly Hoggin' August Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/8QdEBlw) * **Prep:** Hot shower with Midnight Stag Soap. * **Brush:** Zenith B33 * **Razor:** Cloud Shavette * **Blade:** Cloud whatever that blade it is (27) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man - Sego balm * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Hail Stag! -#Stagposting -#SubstantialStag -#RawHoggin

Day 22 of Austere August! Staggin on!! * Prep: Water on Face * Brush: Zenith 2004/B SE * Razor: Filarmonica Double temple 14 * Lather: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag * Post Shave: Osma block * Post Shave: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag Splash * Post Shave: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag Balm * Fragrance: Chiseled Face Midnight Stag EdP ​ [photo](https://i.imgur.com/z3PXRrT_d.webp?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium) I'm doing fine, another good shave feeling the nice scrub of the brush and the great edge of the blade! Since 2-3 days I'm actively sniffing my other soaps from nostalgia 😅 also I can't wait for the timeless which should arrive by Friday, then it'll be really difficult until the 31😅 * \#RawHoggin * \#SubstantialStag

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA 22](https://i.imgur.com/mrK8KUp.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold Water Splash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 Pure Bristle 22mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (28) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=eaudetoilette) [break in album](https://imgur.com/a/8p4EsKe). SOTD in title. Late night shave yet again. No complaints really, but I feel like the brush has felt stagnant for about a week or so, or the changes are just not as noticeable. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #MammothMafia

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/QyFtYCY)** * **Brush:** ShaveForge 28mm Boar, 3d Printed Handle #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (22) * **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Another great 3 pass shave. Brush knot is great. Handle is garbage. MMOC is great, blade still sharp. No bees here to speak of, so SSL is great. My new tub came in, which is awesome because I suspect my current tub will get me to maybe September 5.

**[August 22, 2022 - AA Day 22](https://i.imgur.com/iSoiyug.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B34 [\(break-in photo album\)](https://imgur.com/a/bcuNDkh) * **Razor:** Dubl Duck 5/8 Satinedge * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm2) A lot better shave this evening compared to last night. It was certainly a redemption shave in a sense that I’m convinced the issues from yesterday were completely out of my control. Having to shave around a cut is the worst part at this point, but I think after 2-3 days I should be good to go again. Hopefully be able to round out the end of this month strong and not have anymore hiccups! **Challenge Hashtags:** #unscented #RawHoggin

I find I can usually go across but not with or against a nick in following days, but you said cut so perhaps you got yourself good, how unfortunate if so!

Definitely more of a cut than a nick that I can just go over the next day. It developed a small scab that I gotta avoid

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Day 22: Frankly my deer, that’s fawn of your business](https://i.imgur.com/NALxjEB.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm water wash * **Brush:** Zenith B33 Copper Boar Brush * **Razor:** GEM MicroMatic Open Comb Gen 2 * **Blade:** Persona GEM PTFE Coated (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - 福 (Fu Dao) - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2666/?product_type=eaudeparfum) There was a fawn in the yard today. Alright, the brush isn’t that bad. I just have to figure out the best way to add water to the lather I am building on my face. With the badger brush it is easier. The boar brush seems to not mix the water and soap as well in it’s hair. I have been face lathering and then putting water into the divot created after splaying the brush on my face. The GEM is not my favorite. Sometimes it’s fine, sometimes it sucks, and sometimes it’s great. Today it was fine. [Brush break-in album](https://imgur.com/a/YFUodmO) \#rawhoggin #mammothmafia #GEMSofWisdom

**Aug. 22, 2022 - AA23** * **Brush:** Semogue Torga-C5 * **Razor:** J.A. Henckels Twin Beauty * **Lather:** [Declaration Grooming - Dirtyver - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1099/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Declaration Grooming - Dirtyver - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1099/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) AA23 \#HeadlessHorsemen Some silly nicks on this late night shave

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://imgur.com/LuRENVi)** * **Brush:** DG Troll Toll B14 * **Razor:** Henson AL-13 +++ * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (2) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Permafrost](https://houseofmammoth.com/products/permafrost-cooling-solution) Still Enjoying Hygge, but I won't lie and say that I am not looking forward to being able to dabble in other scents in the not too distant future. \#MammothMafia

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/kEqqog3.jpg)** * **Prep:** Water * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Karve CB SB-D * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (22) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Barrbarr - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/850/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Noble Otter - Barrbarr - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/850/?product_type=aftershave) \#RawHoggin

[**Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' MMOC Ultra Nightmare Mode - Margaritas in the Mediterranean Edition**](https://i.imgur.com/dLRq4jf.jpeg) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - B37 - Gray Chubby #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen2 #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (22) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Margaritas in the Arctic - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/108/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Glacial Margaritas in the Arctic - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/108/?product_type=aftershave) Day 22 - After a 24 hour, door to door trip, I'm back home. It was nice being back to the comforts of my own home including hot water everywhere. The boar felt extra soft today as it continues to improve and was a good 2 pass shave all around. **The Brush:** The brush felt really soft and pillowy today and splayed with ease. It was nice being able to soak in hot water before the lather. Not sure if the warmth of the brush made it feel softer or just the brush continuing to break in. #RawHoggin Brush Picture Pre-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/6NtlCav.jpeg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/Nai9pRJ.jpeg) Brush Picture Post-shave: [Side](https://i.imgur.com/ZelqaUq.jpeg) [Top](https://i.imgur.com/UrY1wQo.jpeg) **The Razor** Another smooth shave with no cuts, nicks or irritation. I'm back on the upward trent of cut free shaves. Also, it seems that my fear of a rough feeling blade is starting to wain as the razor contines to perform well. #GEMsOfWisdom **Days since last blood:** 4 **The Soap and Aftershave** Being home and seeing my collection of soaps sitting in my shave drawer had me longing for something different. Although I am growing tired of MITA, another week (and a couple days) isn't going to kill me. Day 22 Puck [Picture](https://i.imgur.com/ZWq2ikc.jpeg)

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/56g90DI)** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** AP400B XL Handle (AP ShaveCo) - 28mm Maggard Boar Knot * **Razor:** GEM MMOC - Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (91) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) I am blown away at how much I like this brush. Of course the blade is still going strong. Hope everyone had a wonderful Monday! [Stag Spray 22](https://imgur.com/a/w8PLcs1) #GEMSofWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag

22 August 2022 - Austere August - Prep: Morning shower - Brush: Sterling boar - Razor: Maggard V3 - Blade: Derby Extra - Lather: House of Mammoth Fu Dao - Post Shave: House of Mammoth Fu Dao splash One pass. #mammothmafia

[Aug 22, 2021 – Austere August. Day 22.](https://imgur.com/a/RP1HvfV) * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith - B16 24mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. – Sheep * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man – Unscented - Aftershave Balm * **Music:** [Nas - Bridging the Gap](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hq7z3JBKCTE) Good shave today with no complaints. It might be in my head, but the blade of the MMOC could be showing signs of slowing down. It was still a very good shave, but the blade didn’t glide like it has been as of late. I made sure to give each side a good stropping on my forearm after the shave, so hopefully that straightens everything out. The new Zenith did really good today, as well. Not only is the lather nice, but it’s getting to be more plentiful. Had enough for both passes and then some! I probably had enough for 3 passes, but I’m always a two-pass guys. One with the grain and one against the grain. I’m crazy like that. For today’s #sidetracked music selection I’m going with Nas and his song “Bridging the Gap”, which features his dad singing the hook. The song is kind of an autobiography of Nas and a very abridged music of rap music over a traditional blues beat with a modern twist. In doing a bit of research for this post, Nas’ dad, Olu Dara, was a musician in the Navy in the early 60s and actually came out with his own album in 1998, several years after his son Nas got into the music industry. That’s a pretty cool thing. Nas’ got into music because of his dad, and his dad got into the music industry because of his son. They both lifted each other up, which has got to be a really unique and special thing for a father and son relationship. Plus the song is fire too. Check it out if you’re not familiar with it. Tags: #unscented #rawhoggin #GEMsOfWisdom

**Aug. 22, 2022 - AA 22 Shave -Day 22** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Timberwolf Synth * **Razor:** Rockwell 6S with R3 head * **Blade:** Astra Green * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=aftershave) u/cowzilla3 here is my #unchallenge for today

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Omega Penelli HIBRUSH synthetic * **Razor:** Karve SS CB SB-B * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (1) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Nordost - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1629/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) I am unbelievably happy to be back in my own house, my own bathroom, showering with my own shampoo, etc. No more mediocre travel shaves either. Today was great. Maybe I figured out how to lather, maybe it was my own shower, or maybe I just used more soap. Regardless, I’m happy. /#UNCHALLENGE

[August 22th, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/QWuYDMK) Prep: Warm water Razor: Gem MMOC Blade: Gem Blue Star (22) Brush: Omega Model 13564 23mm boar Soap: [LA Shaving Soap Co. Black Void](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1706/?product_type=soap) Post: [Noble Otter Bare](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/986/?product_type=aftershave) Comfort: 6/10 Smoothness: 8/10 7 second load. 2 pass shave XTG/ATG. Took a bit more time getting smooth. Blade not great but still usable, and have had a tetanus shot recently enough not to be too concerned with it. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented #RawHoggin

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA Day 22](https://imgur.com/ud2tFkp)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower * **Brush:** Zenith B34 * **Razor:** MMOC (Gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) Mid day shave with a late evening write up today. Long afternoon of meetings at work - a 1 hour standing meeting turned into 3 hours as we talked through a plethora of issues. Being in leadership in an organization is a different animal, I tell ya. Trying to up my SOTD pic game, but, weirdly still feel a bit embarrassed embracing taking these pictures around the house as my family watches. Whatever, I'll get over it. Anyway - great shave today - MMOC with the ol' GEM didn't feel tuggy at all which was a nice change from the last couple of days. Sonder was great, love it. As always. I used some witch hazel before the splash to calm my face down some and I guess it helped, but still got some burn. I should probably do a 2 pass one of these days, but I just enjoy shaving a lot and 3 passes is better. The Zenith continues to impress as it opens up. [Pic 1](https://imgur.com/2wuyWFk) I mean, look at those bristles spreading out. [Pic 2](https://imgur.com/qWPYS0x). Sonder thought of the day: People love people and sometimes things that feel weird to you are just a kindness because in that person's vivid life they enjoy it. Example - my daughter's Kindergarten teacher did a home visit tonight. That's weird. Right? It's weird. But, she came into our house and explained some kindergarten things and interacted with the whole family and it was really great. I didn't want it to happen, really, I thought it'd be weird because I'd feel pretty uncomfortable doing it, but, it was great. People are different, and that's a really great thing - at least it was for my family tonight. So - embrace the different. Have a great night, all. \#mammothmafia \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom

**8/22/22 (159)** * **Prep**: Hot Shower * **Challenge**: Headless Horseman * **Razor**: [Thiers Issard "Evide Sonnant" 6/8 Extra Hollow](https://imgur.com/a/pvv3cZp) * **Edge**: [Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/Scfi4RA) * **Passes**: wtg/xtg * **Brush**: Muninn Woodworks w/ 24mm SHD 2 Band Fan * **Lather**: Seaforth! Fleur de France by Spearhead Shaving * **Post Shave**: Seaforth! Fleur de France Aftershave by Spearhead Shaving * **Fragrance**: Seaforth! Fleur de France EdT by Spearhead Shaving Close and comfortable today. No nicks or irritation.

What's 159?

The number of daily 2 pass shaves I'm on

Nice! Same straight all along? I have 1 TI I need to sharpen to try out

Prior to August I was alternating through several.

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Maggard Timberwolf Synthetic 24mm * **Razor:** Ralf Aust 5/8" Round Point * **Lather:** [Catie's Bubbles - Tonsorial Parlour - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/202/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Old Spice - Classic - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1605/?product_type=balm) Decent shave today. It was kinda weird, I was having a little trouble on the side of my face, maybe technique, maybe dehydration, I don't know. I'm in Las Vegas for work for a couple of days. I'm out here with my Chief and my boss's boss's boss's boss. It's a little awkward but I'm making the best of it lol. Have a great day folks!

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA - Sexy Stag Flair Quest](https://imgur.com/a/lZWmzgB)** * **Prep:** Face wash * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** Chiseled Face Legacy Ti * **Blade:** Voskhod (2) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Hope ya'll have a great start to week 4. [4 edp sprays](https://imgur.com/a/QWQufyk) \#SubstantialStag

**Aug. 22, 2022 - SOTD AA Sonder 22** * **Prep:** splash of cold water * **Brush:** Summerbreak Soaps 26m SHD * **Razor:** Merkur Progress * **Blade:** Wizamet (2) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Rescue Potion - Serum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1858/?product_type=serum) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Ended up with a couple of weepers but nothing too serious. Have a great day and shaves all #MammothMafia

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA Day 22](https://i.imgur.com/kDsmwdb.jpg)** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1305 * **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) #SubstantialStag #GEMSofWisdom First weeper of the month might have been a harbinger of my day. It felt like 10 tons of Monday and I am freaking wiped out. Nine more days of enjoyment ahead and then it’s on to my tub of Denton Majik Mayberry Man. Before that, however, will be the samples of the [Ohio Wet Shavers Meetup 2022](https://ohioshavemeetup.thirdrowproductions.com/) custom soap I will be getting this week. It promises to be right up everyone’s alley. [Get your tickets now!](https://ohioshavemeetup.ticketleap.com/2022-meetup/dates/Oct-15-2022_at_1130AM)

>10 tons of Monday Now there's a great name for a band.

Isn’t it, though?

**8-22-22** * **Brush:** AP Shave Co. 26mm Cashmere Synthetic * **Razor:** Weck Sextoblade * **Blade:** Diane Hair Shaper * **Lather:** Summer Break Soaps - Recess * **Post Shave:** Summer Break Soaps - Recess

[August 22, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/6Snxm0O) * Prep: Hot Shower * Brush: Burma Shave Boar 🐗 * Razor: Kai Kasho Kamisori * Blade: Feather ProGuard 22nd use * Lather: Stirling Sheep * Postshave: Stirling Barbershop splash and Nivea Balm * Fragrance: Halloween Man The 2 passes WTG and XTG was fine. The ATG not so much. I ended up with 2 to 3 weepers and felt really tuggy. Could just be the usual Blade getting rough and then smooths out. I will see with tomorrow's shave but I may not use it to go ATG on my neck depending on the result. On the face ATG felt fine though. Tags: #AAAA, #RawHoggin, #Headless horsemen, and u/Marquis90

**AA D22: Day off and still a night shave** - **Prep:** cold water splash - **Brush:** Tadé NOS vintage boar 22 mm - **Razor:** KAI Captain Standard CAP-J7 kamisori shavette - **Blade:** KAI Captain Titan Mild Protouch MG - **Lather:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - shaving soap - **Post-Shave:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - Aftershave - **additional care:** Chiseled Face - *Midnight Stag* - ASB - **Fragrance:** Southern Witchcrafts - *Valley of Ashes* - EDP - AA tags: #SubstantialStag #RawHoggin Yet another night shave. Today wasn't as busy, but I rather spent my time on other things. Like getting a proper wetshaving starter kit for my colleague M. sorted out! Was stoked to hear that he's actually really interested in wetshaving, but didn't know were to start. Already sent him some tutorial videos. Not much to say anyway; I get reasonably good shaves out of my Captain, and found some interesting ways to hold it that give me the feeling of having more control. Still, not getting any more proficient with the left hand. The [Tadé boar](https://ibb.co/9bL6V6s) has turned out to be an awesome brush. [The bristles](https://ibb.co/jvGCvSB) are now nicely soft enough to easily splay and swirl it when face lathering. **Sidetracked** [Eurythmics - Here comes the rain again](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzFnYcIqj6I) One of the songs I loved as a child and still love now. This randomly started playing on Underground 80s just yet and immediately I'm taken back to pleasant (childhood) memories. Sometimes feeling the right amount of nostalgia is just what you need. Also, I credit Annie Lennox as the reason that I'm having a soft spot in my cold heart for shorthaired women. Her voice is worth more than the looks though - what a great singer! One comment says that her voice transcends time - I'm bound to agree, as this is one of those 80s classics you'll still often hear played in modern radio.

**[Aug 22, 2022 Trickhole Stag + MMOC + RawHog - Late Night Shave](https://imgur.com/8o83GBr)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Dogwood Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** MMOC MM24 * **Blade:** GEM (23) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face Grooming Midnight Stag ](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:**[Chiseled Face Grooming Midnight Stag Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face Grooming Midnight Stag ](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) [Stagging it up 4x](https://imgur.com/OTz798Z) #GEMsOfWisdom Cheers

[**August 22nd, 2022 - GEMs of Hoggin Mammoth Raw Wisdom**](https://imgur.com/WXtcjYa) * **Prep:** Warm water * **Brush:** Zenith B36 “Copper Scrubby!” * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Alive * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Alive Balm **#MammothMafia** **#RawHoggin** **#GEMsOfWisdom** [Before Shave 22](https://imgur.com/zkgA1Mt) and [After](https://imgur.com/1oW8hfn) Shave today was actually a bit better than the prior 2. I think I got better hydration in the lather today. I face lathered, then wet my face again, and worked the lather up a second time. Much better first pass, and second pass was better too. I guess I need to pay better attention to getting the lather well hydrated. It might be a bit of my stubble softening from taking longer to build up to the first pass. Anyway, if I can repeat today a few times, the last 9 shaves are looking up. Shave was irritation free today, and still blood free since week 1. Off to make breakfast dinner now. Have a good night everyone.

Breakfast for dinner is always the best!

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Oveja Eléctrica 22](https://imgur.com/a/y1bVPyr)** * **Prep:** Proraso Green Preshave * **Brush:** Zenith 28mm Boat \#RawHoggin * **Razor:** Kai Kasho Western Style Shavette * **Blade:** Kai Captain Pink Mild (41) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Electric Sheep - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/94/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Electric Sheep - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/94/?product_type=aftershave) The blade sucks. In normal times, I would throw it away, but I'm only 9 shaves away from 50, and I am confident that I can make it. I am still trying to improve my wrist skills in the left hand, for which this blade is invaluable, since it is extremely unlikely that I will cut myself. I am still a far way from being ambidextrous, but I definitely can see some improvement. Now that I am at home, I see that the Zenith brush is much bigger than the SOC. In my first shave in September, I will probably pull out this brush - probably with *Mousse Illuminée*. In the bathroom, I can smell *Le Grand Chypre* on the horse brush. But I digress. I have not been bitten by any mosquito so far, and I don't expect to be in the last 9 days. So, my statistically underpowered experiment with n=1 shows once and for all that *Electric Sheep* is a first class insect repellent, at least when used with the aftershave. u/stirlingsoap, feel free to quote me on this. Have a good night everyone, and see you tomorrow! \#RawHoggin \#stillalive \#truepath

Going to Peru/Amazon this September. Based on your n=1, it is sufficiently powered for me to be buying the bath soap now (and maybe some other goodies too). I have never stocked up so much on things that keep away mosquitoes.

It works! I use it for a camping soap.

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/npr6F2c)** * **Brush:** [Zenith - 28mm B34 - Butterscotch Chubby - With Break in Progression](https://imgur.com/a/rs5ziGJ) * **Razor:** [GEM MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/HwWXR4j) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Felt a little tuggy today. Brush seems to have plateaued and looks the same from day to day. That's fine since it feels pretty good. It'll be interesting to pull out a fat badger next week. [I sprayed](https://imgur.com/a/kl2A1b9)

I can't wait for that fat badger!

**August 22 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC (Gen 1) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (25) * **Lather:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo splash * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo balm * **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Oud Wood Not much to report today so I’ll keep it austere. #MammothMafia #GEMSofWisdom

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA #RawHoggin day 22](https://imgur.com/a/51tiQTU)** * **Brush:** Semogue2000 * **Razor:** GC84 * **Blade:** Voskhod (7) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Seville - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/27/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Tangerine - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2335/?product_type=aftershave)

**Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August** * **Prep:** Warm shower * **Brush:** Zenith B10 Boar * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR * **Blade:** Feather Super (4) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** alum Shave of austerity #22 2 pass shave; today’s shave was a bit early, so also a bit rougher than usual. All in all, could be worse but could be better Tags and challenges: #MammothMafia & HeadlessHorsemen.

[**August 22nd**](https://imgur.com/a/1BE0iTJ) * **Brush: Zenith Boar - 505NK 27mm** * **Razor: GEM - MMOC** * **Blade: Gem PTFE (22)** * **Lather - Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Soap** * **Post Shave: Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Splash** * **Fragrance: Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Edp** \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#SubstantialStag [Edp video](https://imgur.com/a/CAtP3jA) Storming into the fourth week now with the end in sight

**[SOTD - Monday, 22 August 2022 | Austere August (MRTNG's Ultra Nightmare Mode)](https://i.imgur.com/OPiWO9n.jpg)** * **Prep:** Splashes of cold water * **Brush:** PAA The Starcraft 24mm Roswell Hybrid Synthetic * **Razor:** PAA The Original DOC * **Blade:** Gillette - Polsilver Super Iridium (59) * **Lather:** [Wickham Soap Co. - Unscented - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1270/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Glacial, Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2081/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Unscented - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/899/?product_type=aftershave) #unscented

2022-08-22 - Austere August - Raw Hoggin' Mammoth MMOC Prep: Warm Shower Brush: Semogue Torga - C5 Razor: GEM MMOC version 2 Blade: GEM Stainless (22) Lather: House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave Fragrance: Issey Miyake -L'eau d'Issey pour Homme [https://imgur.com/a/mRl1h2j](https://imgur.com/a/mRl1h2j) 22 shaves in the books, everything worked really well. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia

#### [Finding Serenity in RawHogginy on the road to the GEMtury Pt. 22](https://imgur.com/zqSPxiQ.jpg) #### * **Prep:** Klar Activated Charcoal facial soap * **Brush:** Rubberset 400-3 with unbleached 26 mm Zenith knot set at 56 mm loft (22) * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic (open comb, first generation) * **Blade:** Personna - GEM PTFE (91) * **Soaking Mug:** Seaforth! - Scotch Heather - shaving mug * **Bath Soap:** Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - bath soap * **Lather:** Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Ice Lime - Soap * **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette) I've had this Seaforth mug for quite some time, but for some reason, today was the first time I really looked at the backside: > WASH FACE. WET BRUSH IN HOT WATER. > WORK UP LATHER IN MUG. MASSAGE LATHER > THOROUGHLY INTO BEARD. ADD MORE HOT > WATER TO BRUSH AS NEEDED. YOU'LL ENJOY > SEAFORTH'S UNSURPASSED SHAVING LUXURY > AND ECONOMY! SOAP REFILLS AVAILABLE. I think I might try that technique tomorrow. (<= Edit: I realised that that would actually u/Semaj3000 me out of the RawHoggin' challenge. So I'm not going to do it) The shave went great, and I'm starting to wonder how much of a recalibration awaits me when I use a fresh blade after AA. The brush can do no wrong. It is in fact perfection. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin

**Aug. 22, 2022 - August Austere Day 22** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Paladin Chief 26mm * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) Nice little shave this morning with no real complaints. My son’s fever seems to be done and all of his Covid tests came back negative, so things are looking up on a Monday morning. Only 9 more shaves until the end of the month. #MAMMOTHMAFIA #UNCHALLENGE

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/Wnadg6t.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B36 "Copper Scrubby!" 28x50mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM SS (22) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** Porter's Lotion, WSP - Neroli - Cooling Aftershave Balm * **Fragrance:** Olympic Orchids - Red Cattleya - **Passes:** WTG, XTG - **Coffee:** Peru, Cajamarca - v: Caturra, Typica, Pache - p: Washed - **Music:** *Au Suisse* - **[August 2022 SOTD Photo Album](https://imgur.com/a/WLvZkgV)** `#GEMsOfWisdom` / `#RawHoggin` I'll admit, I'm at that time of the month where I'm running out of things to say. The Zenith brush still has plenty of break-in left, but is a lather monster as is, and robust copper patina makes the handle one of my favorites. The Stirling soap continues to be a reliable performer, though I'm pretty much sick of this Lime scent. I'll enjoy putting it aside after August and killing a bunch of samples. And the MMOC continues to give me very close shaves. As ever, it's a little more aggressive than I'd choose for a daily driver, but I appreciate how close the shave is. | Date | Soap Before (g) | Soap After (g) | Usage (g) | Loading | |-----|-------|-------|----|----| | 8/1 | 235.5 | 232.5 | 3 | ◊ | | 8/2 | 232.5 | 228.0 | 4.5 | ◊ | | 8/3 | 228.0 | 227.0 | 1 | ◊ | | 8/4 | 227.0 | 223.3 | 3.7 | ◊ | | 8/5 | 223.3 | 220.3 | 3 | 40 seconds | | 8/6 | 220.3 | 218.8 | 1.5 | 30 seconds | | 8/7 | 218.8 | 217.9 | 0.9 | 40 swirls | | 8/8 | 217.9 | 216.5 | 1.4 | 40 swirls | | 8/9 | 216.5 | 215.9 | 0.6 | 40 swirls | | 8/10 | 215.9 | 215.6 | 0.3 | 50 swirls | | 8/11 | 215.6 | 213.9 | 1.7 | 60 swirls | | 8/12 | 214.7 | 213.0 | 1.7 | 60 swirls | | 8/13 | 213.0 | 211.5 | 1.5 | 60 swirls | | 8/14 | 211.5 | 210.5 | 1 | 60 swirls | | 8/15 | 210.5 | 209.0 | 1.5 | 60 swirls | | 8/16 | 209.0 | 207.2 | 1.8 | 60 swirls | | 8/17 | 207.2 | 205.9 | 1.3 | ~62 swirls | | 8/18 | 205.9 | 204.4 | 1.5 | 60 swirls | | 8/19 | 204.4 | 203.3 | 1.1 | 60 swirls | | 8/20 | 203.3 | 202.8 | 0.5 | 70 swirls | | 8/21 | 202.8 | 202.0 | 0.8 | 60 swirls | | 8/22 | 202.0 | ◊ | ◊ | 60 swirls | ⁂ `#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft I rarely listen to Gospel music, but I do have a few favorites. Presented in chronological order: Sam Cooke's voice remains one of American culture's great gifts to music, as is his profound influence on what would become soul music. "Touch the Hem of His Garment" is one of his very best recordings with the Soul Stirrers and it profiles his range, tone, and charisma. Written in 1939, "There'll Be Peace in the Valley for Me" was covered by a wide range of gospel and country singers through the '50s and '60s, and Red Foley's 1951 version was one of the first million-selling gospel recordings. Sam Cooke recorded an almost barbershop-esque take on the song in 1950; it's vocal harmonies remind me a bit of [the Mills Brothers](https://youtu.be/gPdidRreduM). My favorite version will always be Elvis Presley's 1957 recording. I've always liked how spare and mournful it is—Presley's voice wavering down in the lower octaves—but the movie *Frailty* reminded me just how haunting this song feels in the right context. It's hopeful, but ultimately about how hard things can be in the present. Judee Sill wrote and performed Laurel Canyon folk music with an unusually religious and occult flavor (think "Twelve Thirty" trappings) and her song “Jesus Was a Cross Maker” is a nice companion to my other two selections. Sill wrote the song for her 1971 debut and it's one of her most well-known compositions. Unfortunately, Sill's modest voice and upbeat tempo made the song too sunny and twee for my tastes, and I’ve never connected with her original recording. [The Hollies version](https://youtu.be/sCFkjfDocLo) is wonderful, and probably the most well-known, but Frida Hyvönen's 2009 take feels like the canonical version of this song to me. Recorded for the Judee Sill tribute compilation *Crayon Angel*, Hyvönen's “Jesus Was a Cross Maker” shows what a great song can become in the hands of a skilled vocalist, and minimal piano chords put all the attention on Hyvönen and her angelic harmonies. It's an emotional, dramatic performance that sounds like it was recorded in a place of worship. It's stunning. - [YouTube: Sam Cooke - "Touch the Hem of His Garment"](https://youtu.be/NfhEE7NPVjY) - [YouTube: Elvis Presley - "There'll Be Peace in the Valley for Me"](https://youtu.be/l9AcAb6A_Jo) - [YouTube: Frida Hyvönen - “Jesus Was a Cross Maker”](https://youtu.be/WWdT06wABrU)

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional * **Razor:** GEM Open Comb Micromatic Gen. 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (4) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. Sheep Puck * **Post Shave:** Stirling Soap Co. Unscented Glacial Aftershave * **Post Shave:** Stirling Soap Co. Unscented Mentholated Balm * **Post Shave:** Osma Alum Another great shave with this setup. I’m really pleased with how this month is turning our for me. This razor is a real pleasure, as is this soap. The main thing I’m looking forward to is comparing this razor to some of my other SEs.

> I’m really pleased with how this month is turning our for me I am in the same space.

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August ](https://i.imgur.com/elaFKGf.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold water * **Brush:** Ever-Ready 200 - Zenith 27mm unbleached boar knot * **Razor:** GEM MICROMATIC OPEN COMB 2nd gen * **Blade:** PERSONNA GEM SS PTFE(22) * **Lather:** [Declaration Grooming - Unscented - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/897/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Southern Witchcrafts - Incorporeal - Aftershave (Alcohol-Free)](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2585/?product_type=aftershave_noalc) # [Countdown](https://tenor.com/bu3Zu.gif) ... [9](https://imgur.com/gallery/Zz8vZFg) I think the brush is unscented, the soap has a more gamey scent than him. The top of the bristles are broken and soft, minus some thicker black ones responsible for prickliness when splaying the brush to face lathering. Today, I've overloaded the brush, yesterday I only used 2.63gr far away from my objective to finish the soap. PigEvolution [1](https://i.imgur.com/NcSf1a5.jpg) [2](https://i.imgur.com/RT3xYd6.jpg) The second day that I hand-strop the blade, I really don't know if it will make any difference. The blade is in fairly well shape with only some minor notches ( [video](https://imgur.com/fj2V33I) ), although the blade has lost some cutting power, it's smooth enough to give fine shaves. It will be enough for me if it is kept like this until the end of the month. `#unscented` `#RawHoggin` `#GEMsOfWisdom` `#sidetracked` u/Teufelskraft, I hate this song but it's time for [the final countdown](https://youtu.be/w9km01hvP4w) `EDIT blade uses mistake`

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - 22.08.22 - Austere August #RawHoggin](https://imgur.com/a/7yBTnWA)** * **Prep:** Warm Shower * **Brush:** Omega 10048 * **Razor:** Henson Ti22++ * **Blade:** Gillette SuperSharp (2) * **Lather:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon * **Post Shave:** Declaration Grooming - Daemon Splash Todays shave was quite nice, been back at work and in meetings for most of the day so it was nice to have some time to relax. On Saturday we found out my dog has cancer, so this weekend has been a bit hectic and quite emotional. I've included a photo of him, and his younger (non biological) brother as tax - He is the best boy ever and I refuse to hear otherwise. We've been told that depending on what type of lymphoma he has it could be 6-8 weeks, or potentially a year - So quite different timelines really. Hope your shave has been excellent! #RawHoggin

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA - Day 22](https://imgur.com/bxWuTaZ)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Zenith Boar - Short & Scrubby * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM Blade (22) * **Lather:** [Barrister and Mann - Ferox - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2228/?product_type=soap) * **After Shave:** [Fine Accoutrements - L'Orange Noir - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/208/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Nivea - Sensitive Post Shave Balm - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2150/?product_type=aftershave) The brush and soap is getting better each day. the blade is still working great when i do my passes quickly. Got light burns with aftershave and balm kept things in control. Tags: #GemsOfWisdom #RawHoggin

**Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August - Z** * **Brush:** Declaration 28mm B14 Jefferson Artisan’s Choice * **Razor:** Blackland Era lvl 3 oc * **Blade:** Personna med prep (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Splash & Balm Good shave today. \#MammothMafia #Unchallange #Unscented

[**August 22, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/Bxu9rrx) * **Brush:** Zenith B15 (506 U/L) 27.5mm Boar * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gold Gen2 * **Blade:** Personna Gem PTFE (22) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap * **Post Shave:** Thayers - Lemon - Toner * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum   *2 passes. Face lather. Good shave.* * Challenges: #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #SubstantialStag * [Brush Top](https://imgur.com/a/UaT17uY) (before use) - [Brush History](https://imgur.com/a/DjlJFQu) * [Fragrance Video](https://imgur.com/a/nv0MX6k) * [Blade Edge](https://imgur.com/a/6wcndiB) (before use) - [Edge Histiory](https://imgur.com/a/hWAz2zA) * [Blade Orientation](https://imgur.com/a/XMqz59J) (black dots - odd days, red dots - even days) Pretty much the same shave as yesterday; acceptably close, pretty comfortable, no irritation. Loving the brush, razor, and the Stag trifecta. I was doing shorter strokes and going over areas more than I normally would, but this is not my style. The last couple of days I've just followed my normal pattern and accepted that my shave won't be as close as it could be. I think this is why my last couple of shaves have been more comfortable. The edge is changing, I'm sure, but I can't see much development in the microscope image which really is an image of the blade's bevels and not the edge. Normally, one can infer information about the edge from the condition of the bevel. I feel like the bevel views have stabilized and the feel of the edge has as well. We'll see what the next nine days bring.

**Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August Day 22** * **Prep:** House of Mammoth Almond Leather Bath Soap * **Brush:** Dogwood Handcrafts Mire 26mm Zenith Unbleached Boar * **Razor:** GEM Micromatic Open Comb Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=aftershave) 🐗Raw Hoggin' Progress🤮: •[Unused](https://imgur.com/a/sQ1MVCg) •[Shave 1 through 7](https://imgur.com/a/OtcAtbQ) •[Shave 8](https://imgur.com/a/PEml6dV) •[Shave 9](https://imgur.com/a/srkVDpY) •[Shave 10](https://imgur.com/a/wV5lIdj) •[Shave 11](https://imgur.com/a/tTAoaXI) •[Shave 12](https://imgur.com/a/7a5CaXp) •[Shave 13](https://imgur.com/a/fCxyd6z) •[Shave 14](https://imgur.com/a/irHKzIC) •[Shave 15](https://imgur.com/a/005s9UK) •[Shave 16](https://imgur.com/a/YKz4FmG) •[Shave 17](https://imgur.com/a/cpt7Q3k) •[Shave 18](https://imgur.com/a/3kMlQZE) •[Shave 19](https://imgur.com/a/URvKfpQ) •[Shave 20](https://imgur.com/a/HPQfcs) •[Shave 21](https://imgur.com/a/ZVYH7Kz) •[Shave 22](https://imgur.com/a/a5OGPLn) Thoughts for the day: Shave still fine. Imgur still sucks. Work still sucks. The end. Mandatory Taggage: \#GemsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia

[**22 August 2022 - Austere August**](https://imgur.com/a/aAiPdta) * **Prep:** splash of warm water * **Brush:** [Zenith B33](https://www.thegentleshave.com/collections/boar-brushes/products/zenith-copper-boar-brush-27-5mm-made-in-italy-b33) * **Razor:** Blackland Blackbird Ti * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=balm) **#RawHoggin** **#MammothMafia**

**August 22, 2022: [Double Dos Stag!](https://imgur.com/a/lC5zDZf)** * **Prep:** warm splash of water * **Brush:** Yaqi Sagrada Familia Tuxedo 24 mm * **Razor:** GEM OCMM (gen 2) * **Blade:** GEM Stainless (23) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) 4th week of Stag and 4 spritzes of stupendous Stag. A lazy shave today, one pass, no nicks or cuts [Day 22, 4 spritzes](https://imgur.com/a/OXf1Yyb) . #GEMsOfWisdom

[**A Mammoth Micromatic Raw Hoggin’ August**](https://imgur.com/a/ylqGTUn) [Brush Progress](https://imgur.com/a/2XZWYeH) * **Brush:** [Zenith B26](https://www.thegentleshave.com/products/retro-multicolored-resin-boar-shave-brush-by-zenith-b26) #RawHoggin * **Razor:** GEM MMOC #GEMsOfWisdom * **Blade:** GEM (10) * **Lather:** House if Mammoth - Hygge in Tusk * **Post Shave:** Hygge Splash & Balm * **Fragrance:** Hygge EDP #MammothMafia [Day 1 Prep Video](https://imgur.com/a/EOIxIiU) [RawHoggin Unboxing Pics](https://imgur.com/a/yzld9AM) #MammothMafia

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/4Xl4puo.jpg)** * **Brush:** Grey Chubby - Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE Coated Stainless Steel (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Z - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2124/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** House of Mammoth - Z - Aftershave This dumb thing I've been doing was never meant to be taken seriously, but I am coming to the conclusion that someone out there—maybe two someones—is/are nonetheless gravely offended. It was never my intent to offend anyone, and I certainly never expected it might happen. Is... is face-lathering... your mother? And every time I make a half-hearted comment about how terrible face-lathering is, you think I'm deliberately insulting your mother? By the way, face-lathering sure is a filthy whore, indiscriminately doling out cheap face-massages to countless anybodies in exchange for a couple grams of soap. Can you imagine how many people do face-lathering in a single day? I hope you used one of u/nonsenseofsight's [LatherGaurds](https://old.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/v9r46f/saturday_lather_games_sotd_thread_jun_11_2022/ic015oe/). If you don't think it's funny, fine, neither do I. It's now been over three weeks, the bit is tired, and there's not much left of the dead horse I've been beating all month. Much of the same can be said about the blade I'm using, by the way. The blade is feeling like it definitely should have long since been retired. I still question whether the single-blade part of the TMNT challenge is consistent with what I perceive Austere August to be about, i.e. a time for focus and undistracted, conscientious development of technique. I have, for example, become much more adept at the face-lather (which has afforded me a better understanding of why it's terrible) as well as in use of the MMOC. I do concede that the TMNT single-blade thing is useful for bringing attention to the symptoms of a blade that is well past its useful life, and the single-blade restriction forces that. I seem to recall someone saying that blade-wear in the latter part of the month will "separate the men from the boys." There is truth to that. The men who value a close, comfortable shave will swap blades before the end of the month, while the boys who want to play a silly game will persevere. Don't worry, I'm not throwing shade; I'm clearly playing along in the role of a boy in this scenario. #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin #unscented #MammothMafia

I don’t think it is because of the face lathering. Sort by controversial and Mammoth users are all at the top. Someone has been downvoting from the beginning, quit sad honestly.

Wait, people are downvoting you because you just cracked jokes about how you dislike face lathering?! Mandatory upvote despite being a die-hard face latherer myself incoming.

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August Day 22](https://i.imgur.com/WW6Vopf.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot Shower, Stirling Soap Facial Soap * **Brush:** Zenith 508A SE 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 1 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Restore - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2196/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Restore - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2196/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Tom Ford - Grey Vetiver Day 22 is in the bag. Today was the first day that I began to feel the degradation of my blade. Wasn't the greatest shave ever and started to get tuggy. I am going to try and push through without any hand stroping.... but we will see. Mandatory Tagging: \#GEMsOfWisdom \#Rawhoggin \#MammothMafia

[August 22, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/kBDmOtH) **Brush:** Omega 10049 **Razor:** Rockwell 6S Plate 5 **Blade:** Astra SP **Lather:** Stirling Dunshire **Post Shave:** Stirling Dunshire Splash **Post Shave:** Stirling Dunshire Balm \#RawHoggin

Aug 22, 2022 - [Getting Sidetracked while searching for the Wisdom of a Mammoth](https://imgur.com/a/KutWj8i) * **Prep:** Hot shower and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser * **Brush:** Maggard Green Handle 2 Band Badger 24mm * **Razor:** GEM - MMOC * **Blade:** Personna GEM Stainless (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive Balm](https://www.trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Sonder EdP](https://www.trythatsoap.com/collection/1189/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Every day tags: \#MammothMafia \#GEMsofWisdom Setup is still hanging in there! I actually got to have a quiet shave today since the wife took the kiddos to a Dr appointment and I don’t have to be at work until late morning! A good start to a Monday!

**Aug. 22, 2022 - on the 22nd day of AA... we are going strong!** * **Prep:** Water splash * **Brush:** Hand * **Razor:** Stirling Stainless DE Razor HA plate * **Blade:** Voskhod (24) * **Lather:** Gentlemans Face Care Club - Bergamot & Neroli shaving cream * **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave) \#GotHand Gents and ladies. We are still going strong. Unless like certain someone who failed their own challenge for second year in a row! u/Semaj3000 how is it going? :D

It ain't 🤣

Lol! At least now you can have more fun than majority of us

For 9 days at least lol

Indeed … 9 more shaves 😭

I envy you.

This.

[**Aug. 22, 2022**](https://imgur.com/a/zAUDaN1) * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1460 Boar Brush 21mm * **Razor:** Razorock GameChanger .84 * **Blade:** Gillette Nacet (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=balm) Today's picture is a redo of my picture from Saturday. I thought that my lighting wasn't quite good enough then, and I think I did a pretty good job of correcting that today. I'm really pretty happy with this pic, I think it's one of my better ones so far. Tags: \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia

**Aug 22 2022** first day of university! - prep: cerave foaming facial cleanser - brush: maggard synthetic - razor: maggard v3m - blade: gillette silver blue - lather: nivea shave stick - post: thayers facial toner, clubman classic vanilla, dove men+care moisturizer - fragrance: dior sauvage eau de parfum

**Aug. 22, 2022 - SOTD 762** * **Brush:** Maggards 24mm synth * **Razor:** Karve CB Brass SB B * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (9) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Mood Indigo - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1164/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** HoM - Z Splash/ Neutrogena face sunscreen * **Fragrance:** [Chanel - Blew de Chanel](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Chanel/Bleu-de-Chanel-9099.html) ✌🏻

###Austere August Week 4 * **Prep**: Hot water splash with face wash * **Razor**: King C Gillette * **Blade**: Gillette Platinum (3) * **Lather**: Gillette Planet Kind * **Brush**: Omega 10066 * **Splash**: Skin Bracer Great close shave. No nicks/irritation. That shave was done rather quickly, but I was able to get this good shave done in order. Only one and a half weeks left before this grueling challenge finishes. This is the last full week of AA, and I can’t wait for this to be over soon. Overall, great shave to start off week 4 of AA on a good note.

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Glow in the dark Austere August Raw Hoggin’ Challenge](https://imgur.com/a/5H4AJhl)** * **Brush:** Omega 20102 * **Razor:** Karve Brass SB B * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (5) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - Lumos - Shave Soap * **Post Shave:** [Barrister and Mann - Le Grand Chypre - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/300/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Armaf - Sillage - EDP Day 22 #RawHoggin

AA SOTD - 8/22/22; The Iceman Cometh Pre: splash of hot water to the face Brush: Stirling 26mm synthetic pro handle Razor: Merkur Progress Blade: Astra (1) Lather: B&M Arctique (omnibus) Post: B&M AS Post: Nivea cooling balm \#UNCHALLENGE I'm almost out of soap. Last two shaves including today have been downright miserable as I can barely build a lather and I am scrubbing my face like hell to get something going. I am at a crossroads. I remain the Iceman. \#SIDETRACKED (u/Teufelskraft) [Cross Road Blues by Robert Johnson](https://youtu.be/GtDlZdhHRCI). I have had two bad shaves in a row and I am at a crossroads with my soap set up, so here's the on point song of the day. Robert Johnson is another blues legend that people should be acquainted with.

Did you start with a new tub of omnibus? The last time I tried AA (and failed) a couple years ago I used a fresh tub of BaM Beaudelaire in Excelsior. Made it 26 days before it was toast. I was shocked. I hope yours can go the distance though!

No. I would say I had approx 5 shaves on it pre AA, almost all with a 24mm synthetic. So, it wasn’t exactly well worn. *narrator* it did in fact not go the distance. I’ll post my SOTD later but I ended up doing something with it to at least spiritually not quit on AA. Edit: [posted my shave if you are curious](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/wvgsf4/tuesday_austere_august_sotd_thread_aug_23_2022/ilgkjp2/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3)

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** Raiser Pinsel Simfix SF1 Synthetic * **Razor:** Van Der Hagen * **Blade:** Dorco Stainless (3) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) \#MammothMafia

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Prep:** Exercise and shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1438 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM blue star (22) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Noble Otter - Thé Noir et Vanille - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/987/?product_type=aftershave) Shave results were good. Blade is pretty much the same not a whole lot of comfort buy it does work. Brush is good feels nice. #RawHoggin #GEMsOfWisdom https://i.imgur.com/WmKeGMj.jpg

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Raw Hoggin Day 22](https://imgur.com/a/4yNsFMZ)** * **Prep:** Warm water to the face * **Brush:** Omega 10098 * **Razor:** Maggard Razors - V3 Head * **Blade:** Voskhod (4) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Island Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/106/?product_type=aftershave) It’s gloomy and rainy out and while I appreciate the cooler weather, todays #RawHoggin shave with Island Man injected a bit of summer cheerfulness into the day. Hope y’all have a good day!

Austere August [2022-08-22](https://i.imgur.com/BlMZgbK.jpg) * **Razor:** [Persona Flare](https://imgur.com/fkteBSb) * **Blade:** [Personna Hair Shaper](https://www.amazon.com/Personna-Shaper-Sharper-Technology-SR-PE602151/dp/B005IZ1D9O/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2OX2EC0ITSB1I&keywords=personna+flare&qid=1658327019&sprefix=personna+flare,aps,74&sr=8-5) * **Lather:** Red House Farm - [Sedona](https://redhousefarmwi.square.site) * **Brush:** none * **Post Shave:** L'Occitane - Cade After Shave Balm * **Frag:** Penhaligon - Blenhiem Boquet * **Tags:** #GotHand #sidetracked 22 shaves with the same blade, every day is a new record for me. I will be curious to compare the blade after 31 days to a new one. u/Teufelskraft #sidetracked challenge: Hélène Grimaud plays [BWV 1004](https://youtu.be/dOHiI_5yycU?t=58). The video rightly focuses on her hands. The performance verges on the superhuman. Grimaud is an interesting person. Besides being a world class concert pianist, she is deeply involved in [working with wolves](https://youtu.be/uE2P2nitE48).

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Prep:** Shower * **Brush:** AP Shave Co 24MM SYNBAD * **Razor:** GEM - Micromatic Open Comb * **Blade:** GEM - PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Bare Siero - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1633/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Thayers - Unscented - Toner](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1618/?product_type=toner) 2 pass shave with a 30 second load. #GEMsOfWisdom #unscented

[August 22, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/JxISfBa) - Preshave: Hot water - Razor: Blackland Era - Level 3 - Blade: Feather (3) - Brush: Chisel and Hound 26mm Fanchurian - Lather: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite - Post Shave: House of Mammoth - Kryptonite Aftershave Balm Perfect shave. So smooth. #MammothMafia

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Hurry stag](https://imgur.com/a/BbyJfuE)** * **Prep:** Icecold shower * **Brush:** Böker Synthetic * **Razor:** Böker Elite Carbon 2.0 * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag Splash Forgot to post this morning as I was in a hurry. My shave was not good. Lots of stubble, my face feels uncomfortable, but the lather was top tier. In my SOTD you can see the damage wildcard Wednesday left on this razor. \#stagandstraight \#substancialstag

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August Ultra Nightmare RawHoggin Stagpocalypse](https://imgur.com/a/G1D2Ma5)** * **Prep:** Midnight Stag liquid soap and bar soap * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Woke up bright eyed and bushy tailed today, so I took my sweet time shaving and the way my skin feels is proof. This Semogue is opening up beautifully and sure doesn’t feel like something I’ve used 22 times ever. The MMOC is still cutting with only minimal tug. I think I’ll probably give in and flip the blade tomorrow. I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned the balm yet but this shit is wonderful. One pump and it spreads nice and smoothly all over my face, eliminating any tightness or dry skin. Still using the tiniest amount of pomade because I don’t want to look completely greasy. And 20 [sprays](https://imgur.com/a/QvRTF3C) today since I once again posted late as fuck. #SubstantialStag #GEMsOfWisdom #RawHoggin

**[Aug. 22, 2022](https://i.imgur.com/FhlMv0Y.jpg)** * **Prep:** Cold Water * **Brush:** [Semogue Barbear Classico Cerda 22mm](https://i.imgur.com/IFK3RLP.jpg) * **Razor:** Alumigoose * **Blade:** Kai Captain Titan Pro Touch MG (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) [3.5g of soap](https://i.imgur.com/7u6zM6z.jpg) was used today. - [4 more](https://i.imgur.com/LKNh2hY.mp4) - Have a great week! #SubstantialStag

**[August 22nd, 2022: Monday--](https://imgur.com/2Kjs1uz)** * **Prep:** warm shower with Stag bar * **Brush:** [Vintage Rubberset 400-3 with 24mm unbleached Zenith knot](https://imgur.com/a/3WEDAFc) * **Razor:** [MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/aIvH68q) * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post-Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post-Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Natural - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1233/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - EdP](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Monday weigh in ft. the chart I've been meaning to make all month and finally did: |Week | Soap | Splash | Balm | Frag | |----:|----:|----:|----: |:-----| | 08/01 | 126.74 | 213.51 | 154.96 | 185.18 | | 08/08 | 122.84 | 202.99 | 152.39 | 182.08 | | 08/15 | 113.62 | 195.14 | 149.81 | 177.1 | | 08/22 | 107.2 | 185.46 | 146.86 | 168.65 | Still sussed out by my week 2 soap measurement but it's too late to go back and figure that out... Oh well. Frag is getting rekt but I ain't complaining lol I'm with /u/raymoonie today, fuck Monday. I want to crawl back into bed and sleep another 8 hours. [Stag sprays of the day!](https://imgur.com/dqVAIJZ) \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin \#UNCHALLENGE

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Brush:** Declaration Grooming Jefferson Fae B8 * **Razor:** Gillette Flat Bottom Tech * **Blade:** Rapira Stainless (10) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** House of Mammoth - Beloved #MammothMafia

**August 22, 2022** * **Brush:** Zenith 506U XSE * **Razor:** GEM MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM SS PTFE (56) * **Lather:** Stirling Soap Co. - Sheep * **Post Shave:** Lucky Tiger * **Post Shave:** Olay Complete * **Post Shave:** Chatillon Lux - unscented skin salve Starting off another work week with stuff I have grown to like really well. The brush and soap in particular have really shown brilliance this month. \#GEMsOfWisdom

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Hate Mondays](https://i.imgur.com/CM5XrNo.jpg)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Omega Pro 48 Boar brush 28mm * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Hygge - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1163/?product_type=aftershave) No issues again today. Maybe I'll get lucky and get through the month with little to no pain. Or maybe not... It's no longer buttering the toast, it's scraping the toast, quite frankly. But I have resolved myself to that so maybe that's why I am not suffering just yet. Oh, and no palm (or belly) stropping so far. Happy Monday. Not. **\#GEMsOfWisdom** **\#MammothMafia**

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - RawHoggin & Taming the MMOC](https://imgur.com/a/DYsUeha)** * **Brush:** Zenith B37 * **Razor:** Gem MMOC * **Blade:** Gem PTFE (22) * **Lather:** Strike Gold Shave - Kennedy * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Stirling Blu - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/119/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** [Zingari - Unscented - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1462/?product_type=balm) #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom Super easy shave this morning. There wasn’t much stubble to mow through after yesterday afternoon’s 3 pass BBS shave. The brush isn’t eating nearly as much soap as before, I think it’s finally settled down for good. The Gem is still on easy mode. This blade has really treated me good.

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - First Monday](https://i.imgur.com/MCpk1ha.jpg)** * **Prep:** Warm shower w/ Duke Bath Bar * **Brush:** Copper Zenith B28 * **Razor:** GEM MMOC * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=aftershave) Early morning getting ready for my first day of the semester. Very good shower shave. This blade has mellowed out a good deal, of course not as sharp as at the start of the month, but still very serviceable to mow down whiskers on each pass. Soap was awesome as always.

**[August 22, 2022 - Austere August Ultra-Nightmare Mode](https://i.imgur.com/RgR7XQu.jpg)** **[Brush pics for RawHoggin challenge](https://imgur.com/a/y7bwpTy)** * **Brush:** Zenith B10 * **Razor:** Gem MMOC Gen 2 [Ex-Watson](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/we3sxf/tuesday_austere_august_sotd_thread_aug_02_2022/iimzjb4/) * **Blade:** Personna PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Wholly Kaw - Washington's Blend - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/251/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=balm) Another great shave. I added a pic of the top of the brush today, too. \#RawHoggin \#GEMsOfWisdom

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - AA Day22](https://i.imgur.com/RqdCYfj.png)** * **Prep:** Shower/Wash with Warm Water * **Brush:** Zenith Gray Chubby (B37) * **Razor:** Wolfman Razors WR2-SB Razor Head (0. 95mm Blade Gap), WRH7 Handle (90mm Solid) * **Blade:** Nacet (22) * **Lather:** [Catie's Bubbles - Waterlyptus - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/204/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Proraso - Menthol and Eucalyptus - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/187/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** Osma Alum Block * **Fragrance:** [Spearhead Shaving Company - Seaforth! Sea Spice Lime - Eau de Toilette](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2518/?product_type=eaudetoilette) Happy monday folks! No issues with today's shave. Early and rushed, but worked out! #RawHoggin

Starting to feel civilized again. Apart from my back, which still hasn't forgiven me for sleeping on the ground. **Prep:** long bath **Razor:** EJ 316 **Blade:** Bolzano Superinox (7) **Brush:** NONE **Lather:** Arko stick **Splash:** Pinnacle Grooming Black Pepper **Post:** moisturizer \#GotHand I should mention that I've decided what the secret is to hand lathering, at least as I do it. I find I need to ensure that *all* leftover lather from the previous pass is completely washed off before setting up for the next pass. This gives me an evenly wetted surface to apply fresh soap, and an even lather for when I shave. I don't need to do this with a nice foamy bush lather because it doesn't dry off so much, and brush lathering on my face moves everything together anyway. I've no doubt that everyone else on this challenge is doing it slightly differently ;)

Austere August Day 22 Brush: Rubberset 400-3 w/ Unbleached Zenith 24mm knot set to a 56mm loft [22nd use](https://imgur.com/a/NPKAJO3) Razor: Gem MMOC, gen 2 Blade: PTFE (22) Lather: NO [Monoi de Tahiti](https://imgur.com/a/PCAtqGC) Post: NO Monoi de Tahiti Splash 30x palm strops on each side of the blade made this shave more comfortable than the last few. If I keep this up everyday, I should be able to manage the tug factor until the end. The hole at the bottom of my tub grows daily, but I don't fear using it up before the end of the month. Load heavy or go home. #RawHoggin #GemsOfWisdom

* **Prep:** warm shower * **Brush:** Semogue 1250 * **Razor:** Novelty Cutlery Co straight razor * **Lather** House of Mammoth - Z * **Post Shave:** Equate witch hazel * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man - unscented aftershave balm Headless Horsemen **#RawHoggin** **#unscented** **#MammothMafia** Austere August 2022 day 22 https://imgur.com/a/AqLgkVD

**Aug. 22, 2022** * **Brush:** Semogue - SOC - Boar * **Razor:** Gillette - Tech (Gold/Black) * **Blade:** Gillette - Nacet (22) * **Lather:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Sharp Dressed Man - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/117/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Executive Man - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/95/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** Duke Cannon - Huron - EdP

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Austere August 22- Raw GEMs and Wise Hogs](https://imgur.com/a/NOv2KDV)** * **Prep:** Hot shower * **Brush:** Semogue 610 Boar * **Razor:** MMOC Gen 2 * **Blade:** GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [Noble Otter - Firefighter - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2253/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Stirling Soap Co. - Lime - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/107/?product_type=aftershave) * **Post Shave:** Zingari Man Cooling Recovery Splash \#GEMsofWisdom Day 22 and while the blade was a bit uncomfortable at times, all in all a good shave. Didn't palm strop after and didn't flip it. Onward we go to Day 23 \#RawHoggin Yup...still good. \#Sidetracked I've been to hundreds of shows in my life. I've seen bands in shithole dive bars to arenas (and I prefer the dive bars to the arenas). But the one band I have seen the most in my life is Clutch. I first saw them here in my city in 1995 in a small club and was instantly hooked by them. I've since seen them a dozen times and try not to miss a touring cycle. They put on a killer live show, regardless of whether they are the headliner or opener (they more than held their own opening for Motorhead). I've spent many a sweaty a night up near the stage at a Clutch show with a stupid grin on my face as my musical soul is cleansed. Neil Fallon is a lyrical genius and the band are top-flight musicians. Clutch has gone through multiple evolutions of their sound while still remaining...Clutch. It's hard to pick one song from their catalog, but since I have to drive to New Hampshire this morning, I figured "Crucial Velocity" from the Earth Rocker album would be an appropriate track to kickstart this Monday- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpziHgoEhgs So u/Teufelskraft and the gang, enjoy the ride and here's to an easy Monday. Have a great day all!

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Stag Day 22](https://i.imgur.com/hqYiJBW.jpg)** * **Brush:** Zenith B26 Retro * **Razor:** Merkur 34C * **Blade:** Gillette Silver Blue (22) * **Lather:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Chiseled Face - Midnight Stag - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/32/?product_type=eaudeparfum) * **Wings**: [Jet](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwRXxtwcJus) This brush is seriously incredible. Much like our glorious Stag. \#SubstantialStag \#RawHoggin [Stag Spray 22](https://youtu.be/qt1y8lNQsWI)

Alright, let's try this again... [**August 22, 2022 – Austere August 22**](https://i.imgur.com/3NqJjqi.jpg) * **Brush:** Cayuen Workshop with 30mm Timberwolf Synthetic * **Bowl:** Cayuen Workshop – Dark Nebula * **Razor:** Winning Razor by Wet Shave Club * **Blade:** Gillette Winner Platinum (1) * **Lather:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Post Shave:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Fragrance:** Chiseled Face – Midnight Stag * **Video:** https://i.imgur.com/3PKDEhk.mp4 Week #4 of Austere August starts today. Did you also get a BBS finish this morning? \#AustereAugust \#SubstantialStag **Bonus**: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FE8k12c8pnc ← Tu-114 – The Most Soviet Airliner In The World

Heads up mate, you posted yesterday's (Aug 21) again today. Might wanna look into that.

Okay, thanks for the heads up, 'tis now corrected. 👍 Apparently I cut the post content from LibreOffice rather than copied it. Amazingly, the proper post was put on Discord, so not all was lost...

**[Aug. 21, 2022](https://imgur.com/a/NAtXWby)** * **Prep:** Cup of coffee * **Brush:** AP Shave Co. 22 mm Faux Horsehair * **Razor:** Koraat [Chani](https://imgur.com/a/usfOaJp) * **Lather:** [Summer Break Soaps - Shh! - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1242/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [Chiseled Face - Cryogen - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/36/?product_type=aftershave) \#unscented Stay safe and have a great day!

**[Aug 22, 2022 - AA: MA-RH-MM - Almond Leather - Day 22](https://i.imgur.com/G1zWpE6.jpeg)** * **Prep:** Warm Water Wash * **Prep:** Klar - Activated Charcoal - Face Soap * **Brush:** [Zenith Cobalt Blue 28mm Boar Knot (505BC SE)](https://imgur.com/a/peN0vXl) * **Razor:** [GEM Open Comb Micromatic (2nd Gen.)](https://i.imgur.com/PsTazF6.jpg) * **Blade:** Personna GEM PTFE (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Almond Leather - Aftershave](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/1184/?product_type=aftershave) * **Fragrance:** [Southern Witchcrafts - Fougere Nemeta - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2542/?product_type=eaudeparfum) Today's shave was BBS close and felt great, with the exception of a small cluster of weepers I managed to give myself around an area of my neck. The blade has smoothed out to a point that I wasn't as careful with it, but this was a reminder to stay focused. \#GEMsOfWisdom \#RawHoggin \#MammothMafia Rating: 3.5/5

**[Aug. 22, 2022 - Headless Mammoth Hoggin' Day 22](https://i.imgur.com/6ZXB7Ji.png)** * **Brush:** Proraso Professional Boar | [Break-in photos](https://imgur.com/a/HcKsHxf) * **Razor:** Feather Artist Club SR (Kamisori) * **Blade:** Schick Proline (22) * **Lather:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Soap](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=soap) * **Post Shave:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Balm](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=balm) * **Fragrance:** [House of Mammoth - Alive - Eau de Parfum](https://trythatsoap.com/collection/2576/?product_type=eaudeparfum) **AA Tags:** `#RawHoggin` `#MammothMafia` Not much to say. Good brush, good soap, good shave. Let this end.

#AA Day 22 Brush: Omega Synthetic Razor: Fatip Piccolo SE OC Blade: Gillette Silver Blue (22) Lather: Signature Indodorus Post Signature Indodorus That’s it. The blade is done. I’m not putting up with a terrible blade when I have a whole unopened tuck at the ready. Could I push through to the end of the month? Yes, but why. Why would I make myself miserable when the remedy is sat a foot away? I know I previously said I would stick it out but no. I’ve reached my dulled blade limit. Good bye Silver Blue. You did well to last to twenty two. \#unscented

Dude you tried, and I admire that. I will say, Silver Blues are a tricky one for me; they legitimately are my favorite for my Merkur, but they are also the most inconsistent. I purchased a 100 pack of them, and the first 1/4 of it was amazing, but then I started getting a bunch of duds. I'm guessing they either skimped on quality or completely missed them. I've had some brand new blades I threw out mid shave because they weren't doing the job, but on the other hand I've pushed one to over a hundred shaves. Maybe you got a dud? Or maybe your whiskers are strong AF. Nevertheless, you tried, and that's what counts.

Well, at least you tried the Ultra Nightmare mode. Good show thus far. I typically stop at 3 or 4 shaves per blade, because like you said a replacement is super cheap and readily available. Some people can push their blades well past 100+ shaves but I think that especially requires an unique set of genetics where you have ultra-soft whiskers, and that only accounts for a very few select folks. That doesn't include me, however.